Cetylostearyl alcohol – emollient makes creams velvety

Cetylostearyl alcohol, also known as C16-18 alcohol, is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl – fatty alcohols with a creamy consistency. Although at first glance it looks like a transparent waxy substance, its applications are the essence of luxury and functionality in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. It goes into lotions, mousses and targeted medical formulas, where its emollient properties are invaluable.

The product available from Vichemic – Cetylostearyl Alcohol, meets strict safety standards and ensures the stability of formulations.

Natural luxury base – origin and sensorium

Derived from coconut and palm fats, cetylstearyl alcohol combines the benefits of two alcohols: cetyl and stearyl. At room temperature, it takes the form of a soft wax that melts at around 50 °C. This gives creams a luxurious creamy texture and a pleasant “melting hardness” on contact with the skin.

How it works. Features in the formula

In the role of main advantages, cetylostearyl alcohol:

• It is an effective emollient, smoothing and making the skin supple,
• acts as a coemulsifier, stabilizing W/O emulsions by strengthening the structure,
• provides a pleasant texture and glide that gives products a luxurious feel,
• improves the shelf life of creams, preventing them from delaminating, even at high temperatures.

Its sensory effect – “velvety skin after application” – makes it appear in the formulation of premium products.

Applications – cosmetics and pharmaceuticals

Skin care cosmetics

Additive to moisturizers and anti-aging creams, serums, masks and body lotions. Smoothes and improves skin elasticity, especially in products aimed at dry and sensitive skin.

Medical products and dermocosmetics

In prescription ointments, skin patches and dermatological preparations, it stabilizes formulas and improves bioavailability of active ingredients. Recommended in hypoallergenic formulas.

Technical formulas

Due to its emollient and stabilizing properties, it is also used in dental pastes and technical protective creams (such as lubricant for protective equipment or waxes).

Safety and cleanliness

The pharmaceutical grade product has:

• white-cream form,
• melting point of about 50 °C,
• Very low content of impurities and inhibitors, compliance with FDA, EFSA and CEP regulations.

It is used at temperatures above melting – mixing in formulas requires proper temperature control (~70 °C) and filtration. It has low toxicity, and is well tolerated by most skin types, although caloric content must be considered when using high-calorie ingredients (or dietitian).

Industry Trivia

• Cetylostearyl alcohol has been listed by CosIng** as an emollient with potential use in baby care products.
• It is an occlusive ingredient, forming a protective barrier, which also makes it useful in dermatological cosmetics.
• Due to its creamy texture, it is often combined with shea butter and avocado oil to increase the smoothing effect.

Summary

Cetylostearyl alcohol is one of those raw materials whose effects can be seen only after application – velvety texture, formula balance and comfort. It combines nature and science, meeting artisanal and commercial requirements. Products with it are smooth, stable and safe.

Check its availability and specifications in Vichemic’s offer – this is where you will find a quality emulsion ready for premium applications.